Jillian Rafferty

Hello, I’m Jillian!

I’m a linguistics student with a fascination with history and anthropology. I love research and asking interesting questions about the world and how humans live in it.

While I’m new to the world of embroidery, I grew up learning crochet, knitting, and painting from my mom and grandmother. My daily routine is not complete without some kind of creative activity! In my free time, you can find me drawing or singing in my college a cappella group.

In 2025, I spent two months studying abroad in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. During my time there, I saw so many beautiful pieces of Kyrgyz embroidery and feltwork. That experience became a catalyst for me to dive deeper into the world of folk art. I see embroidery and folk craft as the perfect intersection of my interests in language and art. I believe that embroidery, in a way, is a language. Symbols and techniques are rooted in culture and carried across generations just like words.

I’m so excited to be a part of this project and meet people who are as passionate about art and culture as I am!